Sexual exploitation is a serious problem that affects many vulnerable populations around the world, such as children, migrants, victims of human trafficking, refugees, individuals living in poverty, women, LGBTQIA+ people, people with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and others. Authors who write about these issues often portray the experiences of their characters through various literary devices, such as symbolism, metaphor, and imagery. By depicting sexual exploitation and resilience in marginalized communities, authors can raise awareness and advocate for change. In this article, I will explore how some popular works of literature approach the topic of sexual abuse and its aftermath.
One example of an author who tackles this issue is Jodi Picoult's novel "Handle With Care", which tells the story of a young girl named Willow who was born with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, also known as brittle bone disease. The book follows her journey as she navigates life with a physical disability and confronts her mother's death from cancer. Throughout the story, Willow experiences sexual abuse at the hands of her uncle, who uses his power to manipulate and control her.
Despite the trauma she endures, she finds strength and determination to fight back against her attacker and reclaim her independence.
Another work that explores sexual exploitation and resilience is Toni Morrison's novel "Beloved". Set during slavery in America, the book tells the story of Sethe, a former slave who killed her daughter rather than allow her to return to the horrors of plantation life. Years later, Beloved appears on her doorstep, haunting the house and forcing Sethe to confront her past. The character's experience with sexual assault and coercion are crucial to understanding the novel's themes of love, loss, and redemption. Through vivid descriptions and poetic language, Morrison creates a powerful portrait of survival and healing.
In "The Bluest Eye" by Toni Morrison, Pecola Breedlove is a young Black girl living in poverty-stricken Ohio during World War II. She struggles with feelings of worthlessness and internalizes racism as she watches white girls receive attention for their beauty. When her father sexually abuses her, she becomes even more isolated and desperate, eventually leading to her mental breakdown. Despite the horrors she endures, Pecola maintains her dignity and humanity throughout the story, refusing to accept the lies that society tells about her appearance.
These examples demonstrate how authors can use literature to highlight the experiences of marginalized populations and bring awareness to issues such as sexual exploitation. By showing the resilience of characters like Willow, Sethe, and Pecola, these works inspire readers to stand up against injustice and advocate for change. They also offer hope to those affected by trauma, reminding them that they are not alone and encouraging them to seek support and therapy.
These novels serve as important contributions to the literary canon, shedding light on difficult topics and offering insight into the human condition.
How do authors depict sexual exploitation and resilience in marginalized populations?
Authors often portray sexual exploitation as an issue that disproportionately affects marginalized communities, such as people of color, LGBTQ+ individuals, and those living in poverty. The resulting trauma can have long-lasting effects on mental health, identity development, and social support networks. Some authors highlight how survivors of sexual assault and abuse find strength and resilience through community activism, therapy, and self-care practices.